As the Premier League action resumes this weekend, Manchester United is set to take on Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on Saturday. While United’s manager Erik ten Hag has had to grapple with a series of injury setbacks, he remains optimistic about the team’s chances.
Brazil’s Casemiro, a key figure in the midfield, is the most recent name added to the growing injury list, having sustained an ankle problem while on international duty. The Brazilian joins the likes of Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Amad Diallo, all of whom are nursing various injuries.
On the brighter side, the Red Devils have been buoyed by the return of Raphael Varane, Sergio Reguilon, and Kobbie Mainoo to training. Ten Hag confirmed in his chat with MUTV about the state of his squad: “Rapha Varane is back, so I think, especially in the backline, I’m very happy with Rapha back and Sergio back. That’s very good news, of course. It’s disappointing that Casemiro picked up an injury but it’s not too bad. I’m sure and confident he will be back for the next games, so very short notice. The good thing is also that Sofyan Amrabat is available.”
During a recent press interaction, ten Hag also shed some light on the recovery timelines for Shaw and Wan-Bissaka, stating, “Of course, they are closer [to a comeback]. But so, for instance, Luke Shaw, I don’t expect him back in this block of games. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, I don’t think he’s too far away from returning into team training and so back in the team.”
Given the unavailability of Shaw and Wan-Bissaka, the responsibility at the flanks will likely rest on the shoulders of Diogo Dalot and Sergio Reguilon. At the heart of the defence, the pairing of Varane and Victor Lindelof is anticipated, especially after Lindelof’s unsettling experience during the international break.
Goalkeeping duties will be handled by Andre Onana, despite recent criticisms. In the midfield, the spotlight will be on Scott McTominay after his standout performance against Brentford, as he steps in for the injured Casemiro, partnering with Sofyan Amrabat.
The attacking contingent remains unchanged for Manchester United. Rasmus Hojlund will lead the charge, supported by Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and Mason Mount. Antony and Alejandro Garnacho are expected to offer options from the bench.
Manchester United Projected Starting XI: Onana; Dalot, Varane, Lindelof, Reguilon; Amrabat, McTominay; Fernandes, Mount, Rashford; Hojlund.
